Top Turn-Based Games: Best Strategy Picks

Are you looking for a game that challenges your mind and boosts your senses? Check out turn-based games. They offer a mix of classic and new games that have been thrilling players for years. Explore the world of tactical games, where every choice is crucial and winning is an achievement.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the enduring appeal of turn-based strategy games, from grid-based combat to civilization-building epics.
• Explore the diverse landscapes of turn-based RPGs, where narrative-driven adventures and character development shine.
• Uncover innovative indie gems that challenge the conventions of the genre with unique mechanics and fresh perspectives.
• Dive into the rich history and evolution of classic turn-based franchises, from the legendary Civilization series to the captivating XCOM universe.
• Immerse yourself in the strategic depth and replayability that define the best turn-based games across various platforms and devices.

Turn-based games are a favorite among strategy fans for their deep gameplay. They focus on careful planning, tactical thinking, and beating opponents. From classics like Civilization to new indie games, these titles offer deep strategy and keep players hooked for hours. Whether you like grid-based fights, building civilizations, or stories, this guide highlights the top turn-based games for the ultimate strategy experience.

Key Takeaways

• Dive into the immersive world of turn-based strategy games, where every move matters and the stakes are high.
• Uncover the secrets of genre-defining franchises like Civilization and XCOM, where strategic brilliance is the key to success.
• Explore the narrative-driven realms of turn-based RPGs, where character development and storytelling take center stage.
• Discover innovative indie turn-based gems that push the boundaries of the genre with unique mechanics and fresh perspectives.
• Embark on a journey through the rich history and evolution of the turn-based gaming landscape, from classic titles to modern masterpieces.

Introduction to Turn-Based Strategy Games

Turn-based strategy games give players a special way to play, letting them make thoughtful decisions and plan carefully. These games are different from others because they let players take their time, making each move a thoughtful one¹.

Definition and Brief History

At their heart, turn-based strategy games let players take turns making moves, unlike games where everything happens at once. This way, players can think deeply, plan complex moves, and put their plans into action. The idea started with tabletop games, then moved to computers in the 1980s and 1990s with hits like Civilization and X-COM¹.

Key Features and Appeal

These games often have grid-based movement, let players pause and think, manage resources, and watch characters grow. They also focus on gameplay that surprises and rewards careful planning and being adaptable¹. Fans love them for their deep gameplay, engaging stories, and the excitement of beating the opponent¹.

Games like the Fire Emblem series and The Battle for Wesnoth are big hits. So are Poxnora, Silent Storm, and Steel Panthers: World at War¹. The Sid Meier's Civilization series and Heroes of Might and Magic series are also well-known. And indie games like Freeciv and Golden Age of Civilizations show how the genre keeps growing¹.

These games offer a unique mix of strategy, resource management, and storytelling. They give players a special kind of fun that keeps strategy fans coming back for more¹.

 

"Turn-based strategy games allow for a level of tactical depth and thoughtful decision-making that is unparalleled in other genres. The ability to pause, ponder, and execute complex maneuvers is what makes this genre so compelling for players who relish a challenge."

Turn-Based Tactics Masterpieces

The turn-based tactics genre has given us many great games. Two series stand out: the XCOM franchise and the Fire Emblem franchise. They offer a mix of strategy and fun gameplay.

XCOM Series: Permadeath and Intense Combat

The XCOM series is a top choice for turn-based tactics games. Players lead a team of elite soldiers against aliens². The game's tough permadeath rule means losing a soldier is forever.

This makes the game very tense. Players must choose wisely to protect their team and defeat aliens. It's a high-stakes game.

Fire Emblem Franchise: Storytelling and Character Development

The Fire Emblem franchise is known for its great stories and characters³. These games mix tactical battles with a deep storyline. Each character has their own story, skills, and personality.

This makes the game more engaging. Losing a character feels personal. It adds a layer of emotion to the game.

Both the XCOM series and the Fire Emblem franchise have set the bar high for turn-based tactics. They challenge players in strategy, combat, and emotional investment²³. These games inspire new turn-based tactics games.

"The XCOM series and the Fire Emblem franchise have become the gold standard for turn-based tactics, offering players an immersive and challenging experience that blends strategic depth with emotional investment in their units."

Best Of Turned-Based Games: The Essentials

The "best of" titles in turn-based gaming have stood the test of time. The Civilization series is a top pick, known for its 4X gameplay. This means Explore, Expand, Exploit, and Exterminate⁴. It's a classic in the turn-based strategy world.

This game lets players build and manage their own civilizations. They can guide them through history and compete for world domination⁴. The game's tile and hex-based gameplay makes it a must-play for fans. It offers a deep and engaging experience that keeps players coming back for more⁴.

Civilization Series: World-Building and Resource Management

The Civilization series is a top choice for fans of civilization-building turn-based games. It offers a rich and immersive experience⁴. Players manage resources, advance technology, and make strategic decisions. Each game adds new features and civilizations to explore⁴.

This series is loved for its depth and replay value. It's a favorite among turn-based strategy fans. The Civilization games are a must-play for anyone who loves the genre⁴.

Criteria	Importance
Theme	High
Complexity	High
Customizability	High
AI Quality	High
User Interface	High

The Civilization series is a top 4X game. It sets the standard for turn-based strategy games⁴. Players manage resources, place cities, and make strategic moves to win. This gameplay has kept gamers hooked for years, making it a true classic⁴.

"Civilization is a true classic, a game that has defined the 4X genre and influenced countless other turn-based strategy titles. Its depth, attention to historical detail, and strategic decision-making have made it an enduring favorite among players." - Game Critic

Innovative Indie Turn-Based Gems

The turn-based strategy world has seen a rise in innovative indie games. Into the Breach is one such gem. It's a roguelike mech strategy game that combines tactical combat with a time-manipulation twist⁵.

In Into the Breach, players lead a team of powerful mechs. They use their foresight to stop enemy attacks before they happen. This unique tactic, along with the game's changing levels and focus on replay, makes Into the Breach a standout title⁵.

The Nintendo Switch is a great place for indie games to shine⁶. Turn-based RPGs are especially popular for their strategy and stories⁶. Games like Battle Chasers: Nightwar and Divinity: Original Sin 2 have made the genre exciting again with their engaging gameplay and visuals⁶.

Indie games like Alder's Blood and Indivisible mix turn-based tactics with stealth and action. This brings a new spin to traditional turn-based games⁶.

Indie developers are bringing new life to turn-based strategy games. Into the Breach shows how new mechanics and replay value can make the genre exciting. It offers a unique blend of mech combat and time control.

Turn-Based RPG Highlights

The turn-based genre shines in role-playing games, combining strategic combat with character growth. Final Fantasy Tactics is a top example, mixing deep storytelling with a complex job system⁷.

In Final Fantasy Tactics, you lead a party through grid-based battles. Each unit has special abilities and roles. The game's tactical combat and RPG elements make it a favorite⁷.

Final Fantasy Tactics: Job System and Tactical Combat

The Final Fantasy Tactics series is famous for its job system. It lets players unlock and master many classes, from knights to thieves. This system, along with the game's tactical combat, makes it a top turn-based RPG⁷.

"The Final Fantasy Tactics series is renowned for its robust job system, which allows players to customize their characters by unlocking and mastering a wide variety of specialized classes, ranging from knights and archers to mages and thieves."

Players must place units on a grid to win battles. Each class has strengths and weaknesses. The game's story, about the kingdom of Ivalice, adds to the fun, making it a must-play⁷.

If you like the Final Fantasy series or turn-based RPGs, Final Fantasy Tactics is a standout. It combines strategic gameplay, character customization, and a great story⁷.

• Robust job system allows for deep character customization
• Intricate grid-based tactical combat requires strategic positioning
• Immersive narrative storytelling set in the world of Ivalice
• A must-play for fans of turn-based RPGs and tactical combat

Final Fantasy Tactics is a must-try for those looking for a unique RPG experience. It's known for its strategic depth, character growth, and story⁷⁸⁹.

Narrative-Driven Turn-Based Adventures

Turn-based games are not just about strategy and combat. They also offer deep stories where your choices matter. These narrative-driven adventures let you shape the story with your actions. They mix storytelling with turn-based gameplay, giving you complex characters and story paths based on your choices.

These games blend strategic thinking with emotional stories. Your decisions can change the game's ending. Warhammer 40,000 is a big name in this genre, bringing a dark fantasy world to life¹⁰. Games like Darkest Dungeon and Battle Brothers mix dark themes with deep RPG elements¹⁰.

Other games, like Tainted Grail and King Arthur: Knight's Tale, add their own twist to the genre¹⁰. They offer strategic battles, character growth, and stories that matter. These games, along with Warhammer 40,000 titles, give fans a wide range of dark adventures¹⁰.

 

"These narrative-driven turn-based adventures offer deeply immersive stories, where the decisions and actions of the player have a tangible impact on the unfolding events."

These games mix strategic gameplay with engaging stories and player choices¹⁰. Whether it's the dark Warhammer 40,000 universe or the horrors of Darkest Dungeon, they offer a unique gaming experience¹⁰.

Emerging Grim-Dark Gems

New games are coming to the narrative-driven turn-based scene. Quasimorph is a turn-based shooter with a dark twist, featuring detailed wound systems and tough challenges¹⁰. Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader brings a narrative-driven experience to the Warhammer 40,000 universe, immersing players in its grim-dark world¹⁰.

As the genre grows, we'll see more exciting narrative-driven games. They will challenge and engage players with their mix of strategy and emotional depth¹⁰.

Game	Original Price	Discounted Price	Discount Percentage
Capes	$39.99	$27.99	30%
Crown Wars: The Black Prince	$39.99	$31.99	20%
King Arthur: Knight's Tale	$19.99	$15.99	40%
Unnamed Game	$39.99	$23.99	20%
Mortal Glory 2	$11.99	$9.59	50%
Indiana Jones/Mummy-inspired Game	$49.99	$24.99	30%
Non-Groundbreaking but Engaging Game	$34.99	$24.49	60%
Great Story and Fast-Paced Gameplay Game	$24.99	$9.99	35%
Interesting Deck-Building Game	$14.99	$9.74	20%
Contemplative RPG Experience Game	$34.99	$23.44	60%

This table shows discounted turn-based games. It's a chance for players to dive into the genre at great prices¹¹. From dark adventures to deep RPG experiences, there's something for everyone¹¹.

Classic Turn-Based Strategy Revivals

Classic turn-based strategy games are making a comeback, thanks to revivals and remasters for today's players. Battle Academy is a top example, praised for making wargaming easy and fun for everyone¹².

Battle Academy stands out with its easy-to-use controls. Players can pick units, move them, and fight easily. It's perfect for new players and still has the depth strategy lovers want¹².

The game has many units like infantry, tanks, and planes, each with special abilities. This makes players think carefully about their moves. They must use their units' strengths and weaknesses to beat the enemy¹².

Games like Battle Academy show why classic turn-based strategy is still loved. They mix old-school charm with new design and easy controls. This brings a new crowd to the world of turn-based tactics¹².

Accessible Wargaming Experience

Battle Academy is all about making wargaming easy for everyone. Its controls and interface are simple, letting players jump right into the action without getting lost¹².

The game focuses on strategy, letting players use their units smartly. This makes the game fun for both new and experienced players. They can enjoy the game's depth without getting overwhelmed¹².

Games like Battle Academy prove the lasting appeal of turn-based strategy. They mix old charm with new design and easy controls. This opens the door for more people to enjoy turn-based tactics¹².

"Battle Academy's user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make it an excellent entry point for newcomers to the turn-based wargaming genre, while still offering the depth and strategic challenge that veterans crave."

Turn-Based Puzzle and Deck-Building Games

The turn-based genre shines in puzzle games and deck-building, where careful planning and card interactions are key. Slay the Spire is a top example, mixing turn-based combat with deck-building strategy¹³.

Slay the Spire: Roguelike Deck-Building

In Slay the Spire, you build a deck of cards with special abilities. You then move through a randomly created dungeon, making choices that affect each battle. This game is known for its strategic play, emergent gameplay, and finding the right card combinations¹³.

Slay the Spire combines turn-based combat with deckbuilding perfectly. You must think about card synergies and challenges to move forward. The game's random elements make each play unique, pushing you to try new strategies.

The game's simple yet engaging design has made it a hit. Slay the Spire is praised for its strategic gameplay, deck-building, and discovery. It offers a unique turn-based experience¹⁴.

"Slay the Spire's blend of deck-building, roguelike, and strategic decision-making is a winning combination that keeps players coming back for more."

4X Turn-Based Strategy Epics

The turn-based strategy genre has brought us grand-scale 4X games. These games let us guide entire civilizations through time. One such epic title is Endless, a fantasy game set in Auriga¹⁵. It stands out with its diverse factions, each with unique strategies and abilities¹⁶.

Endless Legend's gameplay is tile-based and hex-driven. It focuses on strategy and the discovery of secrets. This makes it a top choice in the turn-based 4X games, offering a deep fantasy world and strategic challenges¹⁵. Critics and fans praise its innovative faction design, offering different playstyles and victory conditions¹⁷.

Endless Legend: Unique Factions and Fantasy World

Auriga, the fantasy world of Endless Legend, is rich and diverse. It features a wide range of factions, each with their own culture and strategies¹⁵. From Dwarves to Necrophages, each faction offers unique challenges and opportunities¹⁶.

The game focuses on strategy and resource management. Its tile-based gameplay makes it a top 4X title¹⁵. Players must balance resources and navigate diplomacy, espionage, and conquest to win¹⁷.

Endless Legend's unique factions and strategic depth have made it popular among fans¹⁵. Its diverse factions and maps offer a fresh experience each time, making it a must-play for 4X fans¹⁶.

"Endless Legend is a polarizing game in the 4X community, revolutionizing the genre with wildly different factions and a strategic focus on maximizing Food, Industry, Dust, Science, and Influence (FIDSI) resources."¹⁷

Endless Legend combines fantasy storytelling, tile-based exploration, and strategic depth. This makes it a standout in the turn-based 4X genre, offering a unique civilization-building experience¹⁵.

Turn-Based Tactics with a Twist

Turn-based strategy games have always been about grid-based, isometric views. But, some games have added a new spin to this style¹⁸. Gears Tactics is one such game. It mixes turn-based tactics with the fast-paced combat of the Gears of War series¹⁸.

Gears Tactics: Third-Person Tactical Combat

Gears Tactics keeps the series' intense fights and industrial look¹⁸. It also has cool features like chain kills and a three-action-point system. These add to the game's fast-paced feel¹⁸.

The game's visuals bring the Gears of War style to turn-based games, making it feel very Gears-like¹⁸. This makes the game a unique take on turn-based tactics¹⁸.

Gears Tactics combines turn-based play with the fast, pausable action of Gears games¹⁸. It's a fresh take that will appeal to both new and old fans of the series¹⁸. The game's strategic play and visuals make it a top choice in the turn-based tactics genre¹⁸.

Gears Tactics has gotten a lot of praise for its innovative approach to turn-based tactics¹⁸. It brings the Gears of War feel to a new kind of tactical game. The mix of brutal combat and strategic thinking has won over fans and newcomers alike¹⁸.

In a world where isometric views are common, Gears Tactics shows how turn-based tactics can be adapted to different styles and franchises¹⁸. It offers a unique and exciting tactical experience¹⁸.

Underrated Turn-Based Gems

Battle Brothers: Gritty Medieval Mercenary Warfare

There are many hidden gems in the turn-based strategy world. Battle Brothers is one of them. It's a tactical RPG set in medieval times, where you lead a group of mercenaries¹⁹.

In Battle Brothers, you manage a group of warriors with different skills and flaws. You'll face many challenges and make tough choices. The game's combat is realistic, with injuries affecting how well your units fight¹⁹.

This game stands out for its tough combat and focus on character growth and storytelling. It's perfect for fans who want a deep, gritty, and replayable game¹⁹.

"Battle Brothers is a deep and challenging tactical RPG that will test your skills and decision-making abilities to the limit. The combat is brutal, the stakes are high, and the sense of accomplishment you'll feel when you lead your ragtag band of mercenaries to victory is unparalleled."

Battle Brothers is all about managing your units and developing your characters. It shows what life was like for medieval mercenaries. If you're looking for a unique turn-based game with a strong story and lots to do, check out Battle Brothers¹⁹.

Game	Developer	Release Date	Available On
Battle Brothers	Overhype Studios	2017	Steam, GOG

¹⁹

Conclusion

The turn-based strategy genre is a favorite among gamers, offering a wide range of experiences²⁰. Classics like Civilization and XCOM, along with Final Fantasy Tactics and indie hits like Into the Breach, make this genre exciting²¹. Whether you love building worlds, fighting on grids, or diving into medieval battles, these games offer deep gameplay and stories that keep players coming back²⁰²².

The future of turn-based gaming looks bright, with new titles that will take the genre to new heights²⁰. Games like "Massive Assault Network 2" and "Elven Legacy" bring new twists to the genre, appealing to players on different platforms²⁰. With its rich history and dedicated fans, turn-based strategy remains a key part of gaming, offering experiences that are both timeless and thrilling.

If you're new to turn-based strategy or a long-time fan, this article's game lineup promises hours of fun and challenge²⁰. So, jump in and explore the exciting world of turn-based gaming. You'll find your next strategic adventure waiting for you.

FAQ

What are the key features and appeal of turn-based strategy games?

Turn-based strategy games focus on careful planning and strategic moves. Players take turns making moves. They include grid-based movement, pausable real-time gameplay, and managing resources. Players also progress their characters and face challenges that reward planning and adaptability.

What are some of the seminal masterpieces in the turn-based tactics genre?

The XCOM series is known for its tough gameplay and tense battles. The Fire Emblem franchise is famous for its stories and characters. Both have set high standards for the genre.

What makes the Civilization series a quintessential "best of" turn-based strategy title?

The Civilization series is a top choice in turn-based strategy. It offers deep world-building and resource management. Its gameplay and historical details have made it a classic.

How does Into the Breach offer a fresh and compelling twist on the turn-based tactics experience?

Into the Breach is an indie game that mixes tactical combat with time control. Players lead a mech squad, using future enemy action info to plan and prevent attacks.

What makes Final Fantasy Tactics a beloved entry in the turn-based strategy-RPG genre?

Final Fantasy Tactics combines deep stories with a complex job system. Players create a party with special abilities. The game requires strategic positioning and skill use in battles.

How do narrative-driven turn-based adventures offer a unique blend of strategic contemplation and emotional investment?

These games focus on stories where player choices change the story. They mix strategic gameplay with engaging stories and player agency. This creates a deep connection with the game world.

What makes Battle Academy an accessible and user-friendly approach to turn-based wargaming?

Battle Academy offers a variety of units with different strengths and weaknesses. Its control system makes moving and fighting units easy. It keeps strategic thinking at the core.

How does Slay the Spire blend turn-based combat and deck-building strategy?

In Slay the Spire, players build a deck of cards with special abilities. They move through a dungeon, making choices that affect battles. The game's strategy and card combinations make it exciting.

What sets Endless Legend apart in the turn-based 4X genre?

Endless Legend stands out with its diverse factions and strategies. It has tile-based gameplay and focuses on exploration, diplomacy, and combat. The game's depth and secrets make it a top choice.

How does Gears Tactics blend the turn-based genre with the intense, pausable real-time combat of the Gears of War franchise?

Gears Tactics combines intense battles with turn-based gameplay. It features chain kills and a three-action system. The game's look and feel are true to the Gears of War series.

What makes Battle Brothers a standout title for fans of turn-based strategy who crave a deep, gritty, and replayable experience?

Battle Brothers lets players lead a group of warriors through a tough campaign. The game's combat is realistic, with injuries affecting performance. This makes for a challenging and engaging experience.

Source Links

1. Turn-based strategy - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn-based_strategy
2. 10 Top Promising Turn-Based RPGs & Strategy Games - Kaeoi42 - https://turnbasedlovers.com/lists/10-top-turn-based-rpgs-strategy-games-kaeoi42/
3. 15 Turn-Based JRPGs With The Best Stories - https://gamerant.com/best-turn-based-jrpgs-stories/
4. Best 10 Turn-Based Strategy Games of the Last Two (And a Bit) Years - https://turnbasedlovers.com/news/best-10-turn-based-strategy-games-of-the-last-two-and-a-bit-years/
5. 14 Best Turn-Based Indie Games On Steam - https://www.thegamer.com/best-turn-based-indie-games-pc-steam/
6. Top 15 Best Nintendo Switch Indie Turn-Based RPGs You Should Play in 2023 - https://turnbasedlovers.com/news/top-15-best-nintendo-switch-indie-turn-based-rpgs-you-should-play-in-2023/
7. 20 Best Turn-Based JRPGs Of All Time, Ranked - https://www.thegamer.com/jrpg-turn-based-best-all-time-ranked/
8. Best turn-based strategy games on PC 2024 - https://www.pcgamesn.com/best-turn-based-strategy-games
9. Top 15 Most Anticipated Turn-Based RPGs Of 2024 - https://turnbasedlovers.com/lists/top-15-most-anticipated-turn-based-rpgs-of-2024/
10. Top 10 Grim-Dark Turn-Based RPGs - https://turnbasedlovers.com/lists/top-10-grim-dark-turn-based-rpgs-strategy-games/
11. Steam Curator: Turn-based games - https://store.steampowered.com/curator/29618454-Turn-based-games/
12. 10 Surprisingly Good Indie Turn-Based RPGs - https://turnbasedlovers.com/lists/10-incredibly-good-indie-turn-based-rpgs-and-strategy-games-you-probably-missed/
13. 10 Great Steam Deck Turn-Based Games to Take With You on the Go - https://turnbasedlovers.com/lists/10-great-steam-deck-turn-based-games-to-take-with-you-on-the-go/
14. Top 15 turn-based games for mobile devices - https://www.pocketgamer.com/best-games/turn-based-games/
15. Best 10 4X Strategy Games of All Time - https://turnbasedlovers.com/lists/best-10-4x-strategy-games-of-all-time/
16. The best 4X games on PC 2024 - https://www.pcgamesn.com/best-4X-games
17. Our Top Ten 4X Games of All Time List - https://explorminate.org/our-top-ten-4x-games-of-all-time-list/
18. Best 20 Tactical/Strategy Turn-Based RPGs Of the Last Two Years up to 2023 - https://turnbasedlovers.com/news/best-20-tactical-strategy-turn-based-rpgs-of-the-last-two-years-up-to-2023
19. Top 10 Turn-Based Strategy Games - https://turnbasedlovers.com/lists/top-10-turn-based-strategy-games/
20. Best Turn-Based Strategy Games - Metacritic - https://www.metacritic.com/browse/games/genre/metascore/turn-based/all/?view=detailed&page=4
21. 15 Turn Based RPGs To Play If You Like The Final Fantasy Franchise - https://www.thegamer.com/turn-based-rpgs-like-final-fantasy-franchise/
22. Networking of a turn-based game - https://longwelwind.net/blog/networking-turn-based-game/